We've been hearing rumors for years about when Cupertino will finally decide to enter the foldable device market. It seems the wait now has a date marked on the calendar, as various industry sources indicate that Apple's first foldable iPhone will be released in 2026, probably sharing the stage with the upcoming iPhone 18 range. This move would not only represent a radical change in the design of the world's most iconic phone, but would also mark the beginning of a new era under the leadership of John Ternus as the company's brand-new CEO.
The strategy surrounding this launch is very reminiscent of what we experienced with the iPhone X. It's not just about releasing a new product, but about introducing a technology that, due to its complexity, This will severely limit stock during the first few months of life. Although the official presentation will take place at the traditional September event, it is very likely that users will have to wait several weeks to get their hands on it, with shipments that could be delayed until the last quarter of the year.
A limited stock and exclusivity strategy
Although Apple typically sells millions of units of its Pro models with ease, sales figures for the foldable model will be somewhat more modest at first. Analysts closely involved with the supply chain suggest that Initial production will be around 10 million unitsThis figure, while seemingly high, is small compared to the brand's usual sales volume. Even so, this target far surpasses the current sales of its direct competitors, demonstrating Apple's unwavering confidence that its fans will continue to purchase products despite the challenges.
The main problem for those wanting to be the first to show off this new toy will be availability. Pre-orders are expected to sell out in a matter of minutes, and Waiting times can be extended to up to six weeks This scarcity is not accidental, but rather the result of a meticulous manufacturing process where the hinge and flexible screen must meet demanding quality standards, as always with this brand. Furthermore, this scenario of high demand and low supply often creates the perfect breeding ground for resale prices to skyrocket.
Price and specifications of a luxury device
If you're thinking of saving up for this phone, get your wallet ready because it's not going to be cheap. Between the memory crisis that's driving up chip prices and the high cost of manufacturing a bendable OLED panel, The price of the foldable iPhone could be between 2.300 and 2.500 eurosIt's a somewhat staggering amount, but Apple justifies this outlay with top-tier hardware that includes a 5,5-inch external screen for quick use and an impressive 7,8-inch internal panel for when we need more space.
The most surprising thing about the leaks is the thickness of the device. It's rumored that, once unfolded, the phone... It will have a profile of only 5 millimeters.This would make it one of the thinnest foldable phones on the market today. To achieve this engineering feat without sacrificing power, Apple would use the same processor found in that year's Pro models, ensuring performance commensurate with the expectations of a device that costs as much as a high-end computer.
Strategic alliances to ensure quality
For this whole machine to work, Apple has had to strengthen ties with long-standing partners. Samsung will be the main supplier of flexible panelsHaving demonstrated that its OLED screens meet the necessary durability standards to prevent the dreaded crease from appearing in the center of the device, Apple has partnered with Samsung. It's a marriage of convenience where Apple provides the design and software, and Samsung contributes its expertise in manufacturing millions of screens for its own Fold models. However, Apple is also exploring new suppliers for memory components, seeking to circumvent the current high costs in the technology market.
Although the launch seems to be on track for a couple of years from now, the true success of this venture won't be measurable until well into 2027. It will be then that supply stabilizes and we'll see if the general public embraces this format or if it remains a niche product for the most enthusiastic users. What is clear is that and will force the rest of the manufacturers to get their act together so as not to lose their piece of the pie in the high-end range.
Everything points to 2026 marking a turning point in Apple's product lineup with the arrival of the iPhone Ultra, also known as the Fold. With a design that promises to be revolutionary, breathtaking specifications, and a price tag that places it at the pinnacle of the luxury market, the device aims to double the sales of its direct competitors despite manufacturing bottlenecks. The key to its success will lie in how the company manages the extremely high expectations of users in the face of an initial stock that is expected to be quite limited during its first few months.
